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2.2 Fit, airflow, and serviceability

Lesson
Hardware safety: isolate power; never open a PSU.

Before touching hardware

  • Follow the exact model's service instructions. Shut down, unplug mains and peripherals, and disconnect any internal battery as instructed. Sleep, the PSU switch, or unplugging a laptop charger alone does not fully isolate power.
  • Let parts cool. Use a clean, dry workspace and approved ESD precautions. Hold boards by their edges, avoid contacts, account for screws, and never force connectors.
  • Never open a PSU or insert tools through its vents; stored energy can remain after unplugging. Use only modular cables confirmed compatible with the exact PSU model.
  • Isolate power before every physical change or cleaning. Powered tests are software/external observations with hands and tools out. No live probing, unspecified pin bridging, or damaged-battery servicing.
  • Stop for damage, swelling, liquid, burning smells, or unclear instructions; consult qualified service. Photos, diagrams, and supplied readings are sufficient for these exercises.

Service and ESD guidance · Example PSU cable chart. Check your exact model.

Practice lab

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Saved on this device. Practice is ungraded.

Build and test

Resolve cooler and RAM conflicts in a workstation quote

A parts quote specifies a 320 mm GPU and ≥32 GB RAM. The supplied case allows 350 mm GPU length, reduced to 310 mm with a front radiator, and a tower ≤160 mm. Select cooling and RAM with ≥15 mm GPU clearance and no height conflict. Cable bends and service access need separate checks.

GPU length clearance—
Supplied cooler-to-RAM height margin—

Change choices to compare results, then check the requirements.

  • Leave at least 15 mm GPU length clearance
  • Stay within the 160 mm tower limit
  • Stay within the supplied cooler RAM limit
  • Retain at least 32 GB memory
Lesson notes

Leave space for airflow, cables, service access, and future upgrades.

Fit is more than dimensions

A card can be short enough but too thick for adjacent slots. A cooler can fit the socket but conflict with RAM. A case can support a board size but leave poor cable paths. Fit checks should include service access.

  • Leave clearance for GPU power cables.
  • Keep front intake paths open.
  • Plan fan direction before cable routing.
  • Avoid blocking M.2 heatsinks and RAM latches when possible.

Serviceable builds last longer

A clean cable route, documented connections, and accessible filters make future repair easier. The best classroom or client PC is the one another technician can understand later.

Cool air inComponentsWarm air out
Keep intake and exhaust clear so air crosses heat sources. Follow the case and component instructions.